The project
Rather than just concentrate on the technical aspects of coffee production, this project will develop a more holistic approach with the target population. Understanding that the Colombian coffee growers are the most vulnerable segment of the population, Starbucks want a more integral approach and understanding of the producers and work on social issues with them. It is worth noting that this is a pioneer project within the approach and focus of Starbucks’ interventions in Colombia.
As heads of households in their traditional coffee growing communities, these women, who have lost their partners and/or other significant members of their families, find themselves in a difficult emotional and economic situation. Since coffee production is the main source of income for these families, strengthening their managerial capabilities is fundamental for their wellbeing and economic sustainability.
- Provide emotional and psychological assistance to female coffee growers who have lost of their partners or other relevant family members that previously managed the farms and who now require some psychosocial attention, especially when they find themselves leading their productive unit for the first time.
- Since coffee farms are the main source of income for these families, basic business training will be given to female coffee farmers to develop their management skills and their potential to produce high quality coffee. This will improve their ability to diversify their income with the aim of a better economic situation.
- Develop the ability to include gender-sensitive and inclusive approaches in the technical assistance provided by ECOM to coffee producers. This will strengthen ECOM's services not only in this project, but also in ongoing projects, ensuring that technical assistance is inclusive and benefits the project's target group.
Project goals
- Enhance women’s empowerment through individual support that will allow them to show greater leadership in the technical and economic management of their farms.
- Improve the emotional well-being of women through ongoing psychological support.
- Identify the main obstacles the families have in achieving a living income.
- Create alliances with local entities to overcome obstacles to achieve a living income.
- Develop activities aimed at closing gaps, related to food security, income diversification, and appropriation of knowledge on financial issues. Improve women’s empowerment through individual support, which allows them to demonstrate greater leadership in the technical and economic management of their farms.
Project partners
